Trekking to The Everest? Cummings to wait and see

Trainer James Cummings will use every minute he needs before deciding whether to start Trekking in The Everest after his win in the Schillachi Stakes earned him a slot in the $14 million sprint to be run at Randwick next Saturday.

He has until midday Sunday (AEDT) to make the decision on whether to take up the automatic qualification offered to the winner in an arrangement between the Melbourne Racing Club and the Australian Turf Club.

Trekking's trainer James Cummings.Credit:Getty Images

The five-year-old has now won nine from 22 starts and would be competing against Godolphin mare Alizee if he accepted a slot in the race.

"It's on the table, we have the opportunity to take full advantage of the time up until midday to make our decision," Cummings said.

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"I will be seeing how the horse pulls up because his health and welfare will come first."

Trekking is unbeaten at Randwick and Cummings said he would not look out of place in the field.

"The horse is going to be the one that is going to tell us in the morning," Cummings said.

Trekking triumphs in the Schillaci Stakes.Credit:Getty Images

Trekking's jockey Kerrin McEvoy said the horse was capable of performing well in The Everest.

McEvoy said Trekking deserved to tackle The Everest.

“He’s a high-rating horse and he’s won at weight-for-age there. He goes on any ground, he’s competitive over 1200 so I wouldn’t be surprised if he collects a cheque, that’s for sure," McEvoy said.

But McEvoy said he was looking forward to riding back-to-back winner Redzel in next Saturday's $14 million race.

“I’m excited. Obviously Redzel is in good form and he’s done it before so we’ll try do it again,” he said.

If Cummings decides to pass the trainer of second placegetter Ball of Muscle, Joseph Pride, is keen on starting in the race if his horse pulls up well.